HARRISBURG – A pair of municipalities in the 33rd Senatorial District have been awarded $1.57 million for roadway enhancement and redevelopment projects, according to State Senator Doug Mastriano (R-33).
The funding was released via the Commonwealth Financing Agency.
Washington Township is receiving a $1 million grant, while a Hanover-based agency is receiving $570,000 to breathe new life into an abandoned rail spur in Oxford Township, Adams County.
“These are important projects that will help mitigate traffic issues, bolster roadway safety and invigorate an important property,” said Mastriano. “Anytime a municipality receives grant funding, it is a win-win situation for the 33rd Senate District. It shows that our local governments and stakeholders are forward thinking with their initiatives, foresight and planning.”
The $1 million grant was awarded to Washington Township through the state’s Multimodal Transportation Fund, and was one of 141 issued for transportation projects in Pennsylvania. The grant will continue the extension of the Washington Township Boulevard in a multi-phased approach. The project aims to alleviate congestion along PA Route 16, and also includes an eight-foot wide pedestrian and bicycle path.
“I commend Washington Township for taking the necessary steps to improve local infrastructure as a means of enhancing overall transportation network efficiency, and providing opportunities for pedestrian and bicyclist travel,” said Mastriano.
The $570,000 grant awarded to Hanover-based ERY Properties, LLC is being allocated toward reconstructing a deserted railroad spur located at the Berlin Junction side, a 92-acre tract of industrial-zoned blighted land. The project includes the design and construction of rail freight improvements. Rehabbing the rail spur is the first step in reestablishing the property as a rail-freight hub for the distribution of manufactured materials.
More information regarding programs administered by the Commonwealth Financing Agency can be found on the Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development website.
CONTACT: Scot Pitzer (717) 787-4651, spitzer@pasen.gov